Environmental Effects of Ozone Layer Depletion

Ozone Layer depletion is one of the most serious problems faced by our planet earth. It is also one of the prime reasons which are leading to global warming and environmental issues globally. The ozone layer is mainly located inside the lower portion of the stratosphere, about 20 to 30 km (12 to 19 miles) above the earth, though the thickness varies seasonally and geographically. The ozone layer protects living things from dangerous ultraviolet rays from the sun, without the safety of the ozone layer, thousands and thousands of human beings would develop skin cancer and weakened immune systems.

Concern about a depleting ozone layer back in 1970s. Scientists then located a “hole” within the ozone layer over the Antarctic in 1980s. Initially, situation for the ozone centered on chemicals called chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Later, halons, carbon tetrachloride (CTC), methyl bromide and hydro chlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) have been targeted. Let us see a few possible effects of the ozone layer depletion on the earth’s environment and also on the plants. The depletion of ozone layer allows entering of UV rays from sun into the earth’s atmosphere which is associated with a number of health related and environmental issues. Let us see its major impacts on human beings.

Ozone layer depletion increases the amount of UV rays that reaches the Earth’s surface. UV rays causes skin cancer and plays a major role in malignant melanoma development. In addition, UV has been linked to the development of cataracts, a clouding of the eye’s lens. In humans, exposure to UV rays can also lead to difficulty in breathing, chest pain, and can even lead to hampering of lung function. UV radiation affects the physiological and developmental processes of plants. Despite mechanisms to reduce or repair these effects and an ability to adapt to increased levels of UV rays, plant growth can be directly affected by UV radiation.

Indirect changes caused by UV rays (such as changes in plant form, how nutrients are distributed within the plant, timing of developmental phases and secondary metabolism) may be equally or sometimes more important than damaging effects of UV. Ozone layer depletion is not something that affects any specific country or region. The whole world is vulnerable to its after effects. That makes it important for each and every one of us to take actions to reduce layer depletion.

Written by: Ali Sarmad Kazmi